The list of mosquito borne diseases just keeps on getting longer and long. It was not enough that dengue, chikungunya, malaria etc. are already rampant across the country. India was put on high alert for a brand new infection called Zika to add to the already long list of mosquito borne diseases in India. Zika is now the new entrant in the world of parent wars and its residents have declared war big time to keep their little angels safe from the disease. Here are the details that one should know about the enemy when in a state of war.
Enemy: Zika Virus
Carrier: Mosquito
Base camp/ breeding grounds: Stagnant water, open puddles, open sewage, tyres containing water, unscreened blood used for transfusions, can be passed from pregnant mother to child.
Vaccination: Not available as of date. Extensive research going on to find one. Human trials pending.
Danger Level: Mild. Not known to be fatal
Defensive man'uvres:
>Prevention is the best defensive manoeuvre for Zika virus infections. Prevention of mosquito breeding that is.
> All things that can store water should be cleared regularly. All waste should be disposed of appropriately. Pot holes should be filled with soil.
> Swimming pools both public and private should be regularly chlorinated and treated. Additionally, they should be kept covered when not in use.
> Appropriate mosquito protection should be used in various situation at home and outside. Nets are best when sleeping at home while other options can be used during the day and when out playing.
> Full sleeve and full length clothes should be used. Clothes should be light colored and loose to prevent bites.
> Parents need to be constantly vigilant of any mosquito bites and symptoms in children.
Symptoms: Usually begin with a headache followed by rashes, fevers and bloodshot eyes in the coming days. Joint pains in the wrist knees and ankles may be present. Muscle pain and pain in the eye sockets may also be present. Rashes are a symptom 90% of the times. Rashes may be itchy and uncomfortable. Usually only 20% or one in five people develop symptoms froth infection while others will not.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment available for Zika. The mode of treatment is usually symptomatic, meaning medication to provide relief from the symptoms. Usually paracetamol is recommended. Aspirin and ibuprofen are to not to be used since it may cause internal bleeding and thereby lead to death.
Treatment usually includes keeping the patient well hydrated, well rested and well-nourished with light meals through the day. Patients need to use mosquito protection to prevent further spread of the infection. Zika can usually be confirmed with a blood and or urine test as prescribed by your daily physician.
Mika being a rather mild infection when compared to its counterparts is easy to miss out on. It is parent's job to ensure that they keep an eye on their children to check if they develop any symptoms in which case they are to be taken care of properly. Parent wars are not a child's play.
